How does war affect the lives of young people? In 2022, when Russia’s full-scale invasion started, young Ukrainian Daria Pidkoshena realized that life in her country has turned upside down. Daria began volunteering in support of her countrymen. Currently, she lives in Kyiv, where she studies journalism and public relations at the National University of "Kyiv-Mohyla Academy".
Do you remember the life before Russia's war in Ukraine? How was it?
Well, the war had started in 2014, but we did not feel its impact strongly. My life was like that of an average teenager in Europe. I dreamed of university, traveled a lot. We very much hoped, and even believed, that in a few years, Ukraine would further improve the standard of living and get closer to the European Union, maybe even join.
How did war change your life?
I feel like the entire nation aged by several decades in one day. The war took away my student life. Due to safety measures, I had to switch to online learning in my first year. On the first day of the war (on 24 February 2022), my emotions were turned off. I was just trying to do what was necessary to survive: stock up on food and water, pack essentials in one place in case of emergency evacuation, withdraw cash, charge phones, tape the windows for strength. I was in a deep depression for a year; my world became my parents’ house, checking the news 24/7, and volunteering. I was at a funeral once. I will never forget how the mother of the fallen soldier screamed, it was a desperate scream that drains your soul completely. The war took away my peace, took away some people I loved.
Now, as scary as it sounds, I’ve gotten used to the war. We’ve learned to live for today because tomorrow may not come.
What is the most difficult thing about living in a country that experiences brutal Russian aggression?
The worst part is the loss of people. I can endure sleepless nights, I can endure the fact that my plans are now meaningless, but the worst thing is losing people. Those who could have lived and created families but were killed instead.
How do you imagine Ukraine after the war?
When I imagine a peaceful Ukraine, it’s a morning that doesn’t start with an air raid siren. I’m sure that in order to rebuild a strong country, we need to be more patient with each other. But I’m confident that we will succeed.
This interview took place during an event at the EU Regions Week on October 8th.
by Ūla Kaulakytė, Lithuania
